Mt. Rose-Ski Tahoe

Details: Offering the closest skiing and riding to the casinos in downtown Reno, Mt. Rose-Ski Tahoe has more than 60 trails for all ability levels from beginner to expert. The resort receives about 350 inches of snowfall every winter, and has a base elevation of 8,260 feet.

New for 2012-13: The Little Mule conveyor lift has been realigned and extended, improving the Rosebuds learning terrain. Also, decorative rock walls were added around Main Lodge, with the added benefit of better erosion control.

Best lift deal: There are several online-only daily specials, including $49 lift tickets on Mondays and two-for-one deals on Tuesdays.

Snowmaking: Nearly 30 percent of the terrain, top to bottom, is covered by manmade snow.

After dark: No night skiing/riding.

Hidden gem: South Rim to Zephyr Trail. “It’s a great run that not many people take,” said Kayla Anderson, resort spokeswoman. “It’s an advanced run in the Slide Bowl that keeps its powder because everyone goes down Bonanza first.”

Where to stay: While there is no lodging at Mt. Rose, there are “ski and stay” packages starting at $79 with several casino properties in Reno, about a 25-minute drive away. Round-trip bus transportation for $15 is available from five of the casinos, including the Atlantis and Sands.

Eats at the resort: Winters Creek Lodge, built during the 2009-10 season in the Slide Bowl, serves specialty pastas, paninis, pizzas and more, and has incredible views of Washoe Valley and the ski runs.

Eats nearby: The Lodge at Galena (775-849-2100, www.facebook.com/galenacreek), at the bottom of the Mt. Rose Highway on the way back to downtown Reno, recently introduced several new menu items including spaetzle salmon, Anasazi pork chop, and confit chicken. There are lots of beers on tap, and the restaurant regularly offers “perfect pairings” wine dinners.

Après-snow hotspot: Timbers bar in Main Lodge. “It’s been around for a long time, and it’s a good place to meet up with friends after a day of skiing or snowboarding,” Anderson said.